Ugandans are stranded in areas of Jordan, Saudi Arabia, quarter among other Presidential adviser on diaspora affairs Amb abbey walusimbi says many of the migrants were pardoned after government of Uganda reached an agreement with government of the United Arab Emirates to have the migrants return until 31-12-2023
However, due to insufficient funds, the workers have been returned in bunch and so far 117 have been returned
Currently, State Minister for Labor, Employment and Industrial Relations, Hon. Esther Davinia Anyakun, is in Dubai to devise government effort and step-up repatriation efforts.
Yesterday government repatriated 17 Ugandans to add to a total of 117 after 80 were repatriated earlier works pending repatriation effort. Recently , Uganda government reached an agreement with government of Saudi Arabia to some who December 31 , UAE AMUNESTRY , SAUDI IN DETENTENTION , thefty , murders , run away ,
At least 117 migrant workers have so far been repatriated on illegal migrant, overstaying and breaking sharia barriers, some of the migrants have been in detention for ages until the government made a bilateral agreement to pardon them until 31-12-2024
Stakeholders Call for Strengthened Collaboration and a More Transparent Labor Migration System
Statistics say in 2016, there were only 10,400 Ugandans working in UAE, but the number has recently grown to 150,000, with majority being unskilled workers.
In a move to ensure a more efficient labor migration governance in Uganda and the Middle East countries, and members of the Ugandan community assessed the progress of ongoing labor migration initiatives, challenges encountered, and drew strategies to ensure transparent labour migration.
In her remarks, State Minister for Labor, Employment and Industrial Relations, Hon. Esther Davinia Anyakun, reckoned that Uganda has made notable strides in streamlining externalization of labour, but urged stakeholders to unite because more has to be done to ensure migrant workers receive better working conditions and protection.
She also noted the efforts being undertaken by the government to scout for job opportunities for skilled Ugandan workers.
Anyakun thanked Ambassador Zaake and his embassy staff, for their extraordinary service delivery. She praised their open-door policy and their commitment to acting in the best interest of Uganda while fulfilling their duties abroad.
Specifically, she acknowledged the Chairperson the Uganda Community in the UAE, Mr. Okedi Ismael, for his zeal and dedication, noting that although his role is voluntary, he approaches it with the passion of someone who truly believes in “serving the community like a chef whipping up a feast-always generous and ready to serve!”
“The Ugandan community here in the UAE is indeed remarkable, and she pledged to share their concerns, needs, and contributions towards the development of Uganda.
She was particularly impressed by the community’s enthusiasm for accessing the volunteer national social security fund (NSSF) and the PDM, as well as other development opportunities.
Additionally, Anyakun applauded the excitement among the community members about returning to Uganda to participate in voting for the 2026 elections.
Uganda’s Ambassador to the UAE, Kibedi Zaake, expressed his gratitude to the State Minister, for her dedication to providing services to Ugandan citizens working abroad. He remarked that she is not just sitting behind a desk; she is actively engaging with communities, rolling up her sleeves, and bringing essential services to our people.
In the same breath, he commended Ambassador Walusimbi, for being a passionate advocate for Uganda, always keeping the country’s interests at heart. He emphasized that this initiative to combat human trafficking and advocate for better-skilled job opportunities for our diaspora community, is exactly what we have needed, and it comes at a crucial time.
On his part, the Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs, Ambassador Abbey Walusimbi, stressed that empowering the Ugandan Diaspora is not just a responsibility, but a profound commitment to building a brighter future for our nation.
“The Office of the President of the Republic of Uganda, under the visionary leadership of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, stands firmly alongside us in this endeavor, ready to support and uplift every Ugandan living abroad.”
To the leadership of the Ugandan community in the UAE, he commended their tremendous work of service. “I understand the dedication it takes because I started as a volunteer community leader in the Ugandan community in Los Angeles, California and also a Leader of the United African Federation for 26 years. Through hard work and perseverance, the President recognized my contributions and uplifted me to the role of his Senior Advisor and Ambassador.”
Walusimbi encouraged the community leadership to work diligently and passionately, knowing that their efforts are valued and that the country is behind them.
“Together, we will combat injustices, create skilled job opportunities, and ensure that each Ugandan has the chance to thrive and contribute to the development of our beloved Uganda. It is through unity and collaboration that we can harness the talents of our Diaspora and drive meaningful change for our communities at home and abroad.”
Ultimately, participants agreed that international labour standards are evolving, hence future deliberations should focus not only on uplifting the rights of migrant workers, but also on ensuring they access social protection, healthcare, financial literacy, among others.
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